Tatra Shepherd Dog
Veterinarian Reviewed on December 23, 2007 by Dr. Janice Huntingford
Physical Characteristics
Breed Group:
Guardian breeds.
Weight:
Approximately 66-99 pounds (30-45 kg).
Height:
Approximately 23.5-27.5 inches (60-70 cm).
Color(s):
This breed is completely and uniformly white.
Coat:
The top coat is long and thick on the neck and body, and short on the head and forelegs. This breed also has a heavy undercoat.
Overview
Character:
Tatra Shepherd Dogs are courageous and lively animals known for their agility and running ability. These dogs like to keep an eye on their property and family members and are very loyal and affectionate family companions.
Country of Origin:
Poland.
History:
The Tatra Shepherd Dog is a relative of the Hungarian Kuvasz and is likely the descendant of Tibetan sheepdogs. This breed has long been used to guard flocks of sheep in the Tatra Mountains, providing protection against predators such as wolves. The Tatra Shepherd Dog nearly disappeared during the Second World War but managed to survive and is still highly popular in Poland. The FCI officially recognized this Polish breed in 1967.
Name:
Additional names for this breed include Polish Mountain Dog, Polski Owerzarek Podralanski, Owczarek Tatrzanski, and Tatra Mountain Sheepdog. Podhalan and Tatra are both common nicknames for this breed.
Temperament:
Tatra Shepherd Dogs have a calm temperament and are very alert. These gentle dogs are very good with both adults and children.
Care
Training:
Tatra Shepherd Dogs are quite trainable and should never be treated harshly.
Activity:
These lively dogs have a high exercise requirement.
Ownership:
Tatra Shepherd Dogs are not suitable for apartment living. These dogs must receive plenty of exercise every day and have access to significant space where they can run and burn off energy. These gentle animals are excellent working dogs and wonderful companions, and they require weekly brushing to maintain their thick coats.
Breeders
No breeders listed at this time.
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Our Expert

Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan